Villas in Sicily near Trapani

The area of Trapani, to the west of Palermo, is an ideal starting point for exploring the most beautiful places in western Sicily. From the beaches of Castellammare del Golfo and San Vito Lo Capo, to the rock formations of Scopello, and the Zingaro nature reserve, the Tyrrhenian coast offers magnificent marine scenery and areas of outstanding beauty. The town of Trapani itself, in the extreme north-west of Sicily, known as “the town between two seas” is a popular destination with tourists from all over the world, for its lively historical centre with its boutiques, restaurants, cafès and bars. Out to sea the Egadi archipelago, with the islands of Levanzo, Marettimo and Favignana, is Europe’s most extensive marine reserve. Nearby, perched on Monte San Giuliano, and commanding breathtaking views over both land and sea, lies Erice, one of Italy’s most beautiful villages. The road from Trapani to Marsala passes through a characteristic landscape of salt pans and windmills, past the island of Mothia, ancient buildings and courtyards and through vineyards where the famous Marsala liqueur is produced. Further south lies the town of Mazara del Vallo with its fascinating historical centre reminiscent of an Islamic casbah. Last but not least, the temple of Segesta and the archaeological park of Selinunte, are a must for anybody visiting this part of Sicily.